Shuffling tarot cards and reversals - what's the deal?

On occasion, I get an interesting question in my inbox. Usually, I answer them personally – but sometimes…the question is good enough that I feel it needs to go on my blog to help other people.

I received this question a few weeks ago:

I’ve seen some people using just the upright cards for the reading. I would like to know how to go about reading just with the upright cards. Also, If we want to include reverse cards too, how should we reverse them? Should we just wait for them to reverse themselves by way of situations?

A: Reversals are a matter of preference. Many, many readers do not read with them and are still able to do amazing readings.

Here is a post I wrote on Reversals for more information: Tarot Basics – Reversals, Court Cards and Patterns. Also, check out Mary Greer’s excellent book on the subject: The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals (Special Topics in Tarot Series)

In my own practice, I use reversals because I find that they offer subtle nuances to the reading. For example, a reversed Devil card can symbolize the release from a sticky situation. It’s like getting 78 new interpretations to play with!

My advice: try them out. See if you like working with them. If not, investigate systems such as elemental dignities and see if that is more up your alley. If those don’t work for you either, find your own meaningful method that speaks to you. Remember, there is no one way to read tarot! We each have to find our own approach.

If you do not use reversals, you might want to try a system such as “elemental dignities”. These systems can enhance your readings and add depth. Check out these resources for elemental dignities:

Tarot Decoded: Understanding and Using Dignities and Correspondences by Elizabeth Hazel.

Elemental Dignities Dictionary by Tarot Elements and Tarot Eon.

In the second part of the question, cards will reverse on their own. And that’s how you should allow them. Just shuffle and if they show up, read ‘em. If you are a reader who doesn’t use reversals, feel free to turn them right side up.

Your tarot, your way – upside down or not.

Blessings,

Theresa

image from stock photography